Incredibly, this is my last column of 2018. In retrospect, the year was fleeting but full of new experiences, and accomplishments, filled with personal and professional growth.

As a children’s book writer, I continually “hone my craft,” as they say in the industry. To that end, I took courses and seminars geared to just that. In January, I was lucky to find a wonderful critique group that turned out to be so much more than just critique partners. Each member of the group is as passionate about writing as I am. A perfect fit!

As a member of this wonderful partnership (formed quite by accident), I was able to move my writing forward. In addition to critiquing manuscripts throughout the year, we developed a blog about writing for children. You can follow us at wonderwords100.wordpress.com.

In every class, seminar, or webinar I took in the past year, “show don’t tell” has been a key phrase. I decided to make it part of my resolutions for the New Year and you can too!

Show your family and friends how much you love them. Show compassion for others. Show how easy it is to share a smile. Show how much you care by figuring out what you are passionate about, then turn it into something that will help others.

I look forward to continuing bringing you West Carroll neighborhood events in 2019. Feel free to contact me with events you would like to see in my column.

May each of you enjoy the happiest of holidays and blessings in the New Year.

The meal will feature steamed Chesapeake Bay oysters provided by Harris Seafood. Steamed, raw, and large padded fried oysters, and oyster stew will be available, as well as pit beef, and chicken. A variety of side dishes, and desserts, draft beer, soda, and bottled water are will complete the meal. Games of chance will be available.

This event is popular and sells out early, so get your tickets before Sunday, Jan. 6. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the post at 410-756-6866 or Frank M. Rauschenberg at 410-756-5444.

Dream Big Union Bridge announces decorating contest winners

The town of Union Bridge is looking merry and bright and the second annual holiday decorating contest has concluded. The judges have made their decisions and each winner will receive a check in the amount of $50.

Every home within the city limits was eligible for judging in the contest. Penny Larson, a member of DBUB, said, “The town looks very festive. The Victorian Era homes are natural showcases for lights and decorations.”

I am always looking for West Carroll events. If you have upcoming events you’d like to see written about in my column, send me an email!

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Recruits in the Carroll County Sheriff's Office Training Academy get hands-on training behind the wheel of a police car at the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commissions Driver Training Facility in Sykesville.

Recruits in the Carroll County Sheriff's Office Training Academy get hands-on training behind the wheel of a police car at the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commissions Driver Training Facility in Sykesville.

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Recruits in the Carroll County Sheriff's Office Training Academy get hands-on training behind the wheel of a police car at the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commissions Driver Training Facility in Sykesville.

Recruits in the Carroll County Sheriff's Office Training Academy get hands-on training behind the wheel of a police car at the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commissions Driver Training Facility in Sykesville.

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Brian Geraci, Maryland state fire marshal, gives an update after firefighters found a deceased female inside an apartment in the 900 block of Marimich Court in Sykesville Monday morning.

Brian Geraci, Maryland state fire marshal, gives an update after firefighters found a deceased female inside an apartment in the 900 block of Marimich Court in Sykesville Monday morning.

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Crews from New Windsor and surrounding fire companies were still working to control a house fire in the 1600 block of Bowersox Road, more than an hour after the blaze began Thursday.

Crews from New Windsor and surrounding fire companies were still working to control a house fire in the 1600 block of Bowersox Road, more than an hour after the blaze began Thursday.

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Volunteers from Camden Cares make needed renovation to the Hampstead home of Melissa and Jonathan Meadows Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. Jonathan Meadows, who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, is a retired sergeant first class of the Army National Guard who was diagnosed with traumatic brain injury and PTSD.

Volunteers from Camden Cares make needed renovation to the Hampstead home of Melissa and Jonathan Meadows Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. Jonathan Meadows, who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, is a retired sergeant first class of the Army National Guard who was diagnosed with traumatic brain injury and PTSD.

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The town of Hampstead held its annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Banner Display at Main Street Memorial Park in Hampstead Friday, Nov. 30, 2018.

The town of Hampstead held its annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Banner Display at Main Street Memorial Park in Hampstead Friday, Nov. 30, 2018.